DAF skip loader proves highly productive

A DAF 12 tonner fitted with Trio skip loading equipment is proving highly productive, making up to 20 pick-ups a day for Merseyside recycling company Mainsway Limited.

The DAF LF45 joins a ten-strong fleet operated by the Huyton-based, family-run firm. They collect waste materials from a wide area around Merseyside for processing at their modern and well-equipped recycling centre at which up to 90 per cent is recovered for a second life use.

A combination of the low weight of the LF45 chassis and the Trio equipment enables the DAF to carry a payload of just under six tonnes. The vehicle’s compact size – the wheelbase is just 3.0 metres - and its excellent manoeuvrability make it ideal for getting into sites with restricted access. And fitting the Trio CH12 PR equipment brings further flexibility because the extendable arms enable skips to be lifted over walls and placed quickly and very precisely.

“This all adds up to making this a highly productive truck,” says Phil Bradshaw, a director of the business started by his father Thomas in 1984 and of which his brothers Gordon and Arthur are also directors.

“We specified the 180 horsepower engine rating, making it very suited to busy urban traffic conditions with plenty of power to maintain good journey times without compromising on fuel economy. The addition of a diff lock also helps the driver get on and off sites more easily when conditions are slippery. Driver comfort was important too and we added a radio/cd player and air conditioning to provide extra comfort.”

The truck is powered by a 4.5 litre engine delivering 180 bhp (136 kW) at 2,500 rpm and 702 Nm of torque at 1,200 rpm, giving a very adequate power to weight ratio of 15 bhp/tonne. This uses SCR technology to achieve Euro 4 emissions compliance. A six-speed 6S800 gearbox and single reduction drive axle with tipper springs completes the driveline.

Twin roof-mounted flashing hazard beacons, a full-width smoked sun visor and combi lights in the bumper complete the smart yet workmanlike appearance of the truck.

The DAF is on an R&M contract with supplying dealer North West Trucks, located just half a mile from Mainsway’s site. “Their ability to carry out six-weekly inspections and servicing overnight is a massive benefit to us,” says Phil Bradshaw. “It means we can put the truck in to them at the end of the working day and have it back on the road earning again the next morning.”